The purpose of this project was to design, implement, and evaluate an interdisciplinary blended learning programme that educates physiotherapists in the use and development of rehabilitation technologies. The programme also aimed to promote collaboration between physiotherapists and engineers to enhance personalized patient care and foster innovation.
The programme was co-created by experts from VUB, SOMT, Tampere, and York St John and utilized a blended learning model, combining six online courses with three intensive on-campus weeks. The curriculum covered a range of topics, including existing and emerging rehabilitation technologies (e.g., robotics, gamification), programming (Python), data visualization, and entrepreneurship. A user-centered design approach, guided by clinical reasoning, was incorporated to promote innovative problem-solving. After a pilot implementation, feedback from students was acquired and suggestions for adaptation of the curriculum were proposed.
The modules were pilot tested, and feedback from students and teachers led to the following adaptations:
- Introduction of microcredentials, allowing working students to take individual modules separately to better manage their workload.
- Emphasis on two distinct roles: technology user and creator. For the user role, students will learn to critically evaluate technology by incorporating knowledge on user-centered development and evidence-based practice. As creators, they will not only learn how to use technology but also understand its underlying mechanisms and how to develop it further.
The Rehabilitation & Technology programme aims to successfully address the gap in technology education within physiotherapy curricula. The iterative adaptations have resulted in a robust, interdisciplinary programme that equips physiotherapists with the skills needed to engage with and innovate using rehabilitation technologies, ultimately enhancing personalized patient care.
This programme provides a scalable, flexible model for integrating technology into physiotherapy education. By fostering collaboration between healthcare and technology sectors, it prepares physiotherapists to become leaders in the development and application of advanced rehabilitation tools. The accessible, blended learning format supports lifelong learning, ensuring that practitioners remain at the forefront of technological advancements in healthcare.
Rehabilitation
Engineering
